Availability
***We offer two schedules - Pick up time at 6:30am or at 1:00pm. Please select your preference during checkout in the Extra Items section***
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Ultimate Monkey & Sloth Adventure: Explore Monkey Island in Panama
As Panama continues to rise in popularity as a top tourist destination in Central America, with an impressive 8.7% increase in visitors since 2023, our Monkey Island & Sloth Sanctuary tour has become one of the most sought-after experiences—and it’s easy to see why!
On our Monkey Island & Sloth Sanctuary tour you will get up close and personal with four different species of monkeys -the Mantled Howler Monkey, the White-Faced Capuchin Monkey, Geoffroy’s Tamarin Monkey, and the Lemurine Owl Monkey - as they climb on you and snatch food. On our tour you may also discover many other wild animals including crocodiles, toucans, sloths, iguanas, turtles, and numerous exotic birds. Please note: While we strive to provide unforgettable wildlife experiences, we cannot guarantee encounters with specific animals in the wild during our tours. However, our expert guides are dedicated to using their knowledge and skills to maximize your chances of spotting the incredible wildlife in its natural habitat.
Our tour offers a unique opportunity to visit the renowned Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary, where you can learn about the care and conservation of these fascinating creatures. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! You’ll also explore beautifully curated exhibitions showcasing vibrant orchids, delicate butterflies, and colorful frogs. Each exhibit provides an up-close look at Panama’s stunning biodiversity, making this an enriching experience for nature lovers of all ages. For a full experience that includes our aerial tram ride above the Panama Canal and a tasty buffet lunch we also offer our Aerial Tram, Monkey Island & Sloth Sanctuary + Buffet Lunch tour.
TOUR OVERVIEW - Monkey Island & Sloth Sanctuary tour
***This tour operates daily (except Mondays) with two available start times: 6:30 am and 1:00 pm. Please select your preferred time during checkout.***
Your personal guide and driver will meet you at your Panama City accommodation (please wait in the lobby). The tour begins with a 40-minute drive, during which you'll pass through historic colonial American neighborhoods, once home to families who built the Panama Canal. Along the way, you’ll also see the famous Culebra Cut. As we arrive at the shores of Lake Gatun, you’ll be welcomed by the lush rainforest and its captivating sights and sounds.We’ll then board a boat and set off along the Chagres River, which leads into the man-made Gatun Lake, a haven of biodiversity. You’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including coatis, howler monkeys, squirrels, sloths, and exotic birds like toucans and parrots. The boat ride will take us parallel to the Panama Canal, passing through Soberanía National Park on the way to the Gamboa Public Docks, where the Chagres River meets the canal. Shortly after, we’ll enter the canal itself and sail past the Dredging Division’s facilities, catching glimpses of large ships along the shipping lane as we approach Monkey Island.
Thanks to Panama’s incredible biodiversity and the sharp eyes of your boat captain, you’re sure to see plenty of wildlife—so keep your camera ready!
Upon reaching Monkey Island, listen for the distinct sounds of various primates and the rustling of branches as monkeys swing through the trees. Some may even approach to inspect your clothes, hats, and bags. This close interaction with these playful creatures promises unforgettable moments and plenty of photo opportunities.
Next, we’ll visit the Sloth Sanctuary, located in the Gamboa region. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the rainforest, the sanctuary offers a peaceful atmosphere. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by knowledgeable staff who will introduce you to the world of sloths. They’ll share interesting facts about these gentle creatures, their behavior, and their crucial role in the ecosystem.
Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll explore the sloths’ natural habitat, observing them as they climb trees, eat leaves, and relax in their peaceful environment. You’ll also have the chance to see both two-toed and three-toed sloths up close. The guide will explain the differences between the two species and highlight their unique characteristics, from their slow metabolism to their strong grip.
This tour offers a special opportunity to connect with nature, learn about the fascinating world of sloths, and contribute to their conservation. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of these enchanting creatures and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Additionally, we’ll visit the Butterfly House, Orchid Gardens, and Frog Exhibition, all located within walking distance of the sloth sanctuary. At the Butterfly House, you’ll see a variety of butterflies native to the Panamanian rainforest, including the vibrant Blue Morpho Butterfly. The tour continues with visits to the orchid and frog exhibitions, showcasing the area’s rich biodiversity.
The morning tour concludes at 12:00 pm, and the afternoon tour ends at 6:00 pm.
TOUR SUMMARY - Monkey Island & Sloth Sanctuary tour
- Tour (minimum 2 guests)
- Price - $119 per adult, $109 per child (until age 10)
- Duration - 5 hours
- Start time - 6:30 am and 1:00pm - Daily, except Mondays
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Pick-up and drop off at your Panama City lodging
- Well-maintained, air-conditioned car
- Bi-lingual guides (English/Spanish)
- Tour to Monkey Island, Sloth Sanctuary, Butterfly house and Orchid & Frog exhibition
- Boat Tour inside the Panama Canal
- Island entrance fees
- Entrance to the Sloth Sanctuary, Butterfly House and, Orchids and Frog exhibitions
- Water Bottles
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch
- Hotel pickup and drop-off outside of Panama City (i.e. Playa Bonita, Costa del Este & Tocumen area. Please select option during checkout)
WHAT TO BRING
- Comfortable and adequate clothing to protect yourself from the sun and thus avoid the use of sunscreen. Creams (even biodegradable ones) are polluting and for that reason we do not promote their use
- Comfortable and safe footwear
- Sun glasses
- Towel
- Camera
- Cap or hat
- A reusable bottle to fill with water during the day
- Cash for tips and souvenirs
Please Note:
- There are no ATMs in the area, vendors do not accept card payments either. Cash Only!
- ATTENTION LAST MINUTE BOOKINGS: Bookings made after 6:00pm for the following day are NOT guaranteed until we respond and explicitly confirm your tour itinerary. If your booking is not confirmed by one of our booking specialists, your tour will be scheduled for the subsequent day.
FAQ
What wildlife can I expect to see?
During the monkey island tour, you may encounter various species of monkeys, such as capuchins, howlers, and titi monkeys. Sometimes we may even spot caimans or crocodiles. At the sanctuary, you’ll observe two-toed and three-toed sloths in their natural habitat. The butterfly house and frog exhibition also showcase additional wildlife. Please note that we cannot guarantee wildlife sightings outside of the sanctuary and exhibits.
How long is the tour, and what time does it start?
The entire experience, including transportation, lasts approximately 5 hours, depending on your starting point. We have one morning tour starting at 6:30am and one afternoon tour, starting at 1:00pm.
What should I bring for the tour?
It’s recommended to bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and a camera. Light rain gear may also be helpful, as the weather can change quickly.
Are there age restrictions?
There are no specific age restrictions; the experience is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Children under 10 enjoy discounted pricing.
OTHER TOUR SUGGESTIONS
Enhance your Panama experience with these additional tours, each designed to complement your visit and offer even more insights into the country's rich history, diverse landscapes, and iconic sites. Check out the links below for more unforgettable adventures! We personally believe that the following adventures should not be missed while travelling to Panama.
San Blas Day Tour – Explore a New and Exclusive Paradise Island - $109
Discover an exclusive and newly opened Paradise Island, only available with our company
Anton Valley Hiking Day Tour - $111
Join us on an active day in Anton Valley, hiking the crater and exploring the town. We offer two tour options for more variety.
Embera Indian Village, Chagres River and Waterfall - $69
Meet the ancient Embera tribe on a 6 hour cultural tour
Bioluminescence Tour - $39
Dive into another world as you float in a sea of glowing lights
CANCELATION POLICY
Please read our Tour Cancelation Policy before booking our tours.
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TOUR CANCELATION POLICY
Tao Travel 365 strives to deliver the best possible customer experience. If at any point you have a question or concern about our service, please call us by phone at +1 (805) 826-3657 or email us at sales@taotravel365.tours.
The following cancellation policy applies only for Day Tours (DOES NOT apply for Multi-Day Tours).
TOUR POLICIES
Due to the nature of our business, the logistics involved with organizing tours and the high reservation demand following refund policies apply:
- 100% refund less credit card processing fees will only be granted if booked via our website www.taotravel365.tours AND if canceled more than 24 hours before the start of the tour.
- No refund will be granted for cancelations received less than 24 hours before the tour start date.
All sales are final.
For all bookings made via outside portals such as, but not limited to Viator, Expedia, Airbnb, please refer and adhere to the respective cancellation policy of the portal that you booked with.
If you are unable to realize the reservation, contact us as soon as possible and we will try to arrange and reschedule the same or different tour for you.
If you are not at the designated meeting point by the time of your scheduled reservation or pick up, Tao Travel 365 reserves the right not to provide a refund. However, we will always try our best to locate you at the meeting point and call your WhatsApp number, if one was provided. After all, we want you to participate in our tour and have fun. That is our goal!
CANCELED OR POSTPONED TOURS
Occasionally, tours are canceled or postponed due to weather or ocean conditions, mechanical failure, or other unforeseen events. Should this occur, we will attempt to contact you about the cancellations and to inform you of refund or exchange procedures for that tour. For exact instructions on any canceled or postponed tour, please contact us. In the case of a cancellation of your tour by Tao Travel 365, we will refund your tour or schedule you for another tour, as detailed below.
REFUNDS
All sales are final. No refunds are available unless a tour is canceled or postponed, or we are given 24 hours advance noticed whereby a 100 percent refund will be awarded. We will offer refunds of the full face value of the tour(s) that are canceled or postponed (or, if a discounted tour, then instead the discounted tour price paid). No refunds are offered on any service, payment processing or convenience fees. To receive a refund for a canceled or postponed tour, contact us at sales@taotravel365.tours within 2 days of the tour cancellation and write "refund" in the subject line. Instructions will be provided in order to obtain your refund.
TOUR EXCHANGES
No tour exchanges are offered by Tao Travel 365. While in some extreme cases we may offer this service (such as a cancellation by Tao Travel 365), it is not guaranteed and often impossible. Contact us directly by phone at +1 (805) 826-3657 or by email at sales@taotravel365.tours to inquire about tour exchanges. Fees may apply.
